EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH
Suicidal thoughts?
Suicidal thoughts, also called suicidal ideations, is the broad term for someone thinking about death and suicide. Those thoughts can come and go and eventually become more frequent and intense, requiring immediate attention. They can also be symptoms of behavioral health conditions such as depression.
Need immediate help?
The 988 Suicide and & Crisis Lifeline is a national telephone crisis intervention service with the goal of providing support to the person who reaches out. If needed, a crisis team or 911 responders may assist the person if there is an immediate need for support. Call 911 for immediate response to medical emergencies. 988 does not replace 911.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
How suicidal thoughts might show up
Individuals with suicidal thoughts or intent, or thoughts of harming others, should seek immediate attention. For anyone who is in crisis, call or text 988 for 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help if you are experiencing:
- Thoughts of suicide, harming yourself, or harming others
- A mental health or substance use crisis
- Any other kinds of emotional distress
Need immediate help?
The 988 Suicide and & Crisis Lifeline is a national telephone crisis intervention service with the goal of providing support to the person who reaches out. If needed, a crisis team or 911 responders may assist the person if there is an immediate need for support. Call 911 for immediate response to medical emergencies. 988 does not replace 911.
Suicidal thoughts can be both active and passive: active meaning death could be imminent, and someone has or is making a plan to die by suicide; passive meaning someone might think or say “I hate my life” or “I don’t want to wake up tomorrow” but not have an active plan for suicide.
Passive suicidal thoughts can be symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression and can be addressed as part of a behavioral health treatment plan that includes therapy and medication, or a combination of both.
Risk factors for suicide include mental health conditions such as depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mood changes, conduct disorders, and anxiety disorders. Additional risks include access to lethal means such as firearms or drugs, family history of suicide, abuse, bullying, and traumatic events.
Suicide is often a very impulsive behavior and is responsive to interventions. Depression is a common illness, and suicidal thoughts are common in people with depression. Depression is treatable, and treatment can be individualized to the person seeking help.